Senior dog grooming is a much more specialized type of grooming which caters to special needs that an aging dog has. Here are some well tested tidbits. You can incorporate these either as a pet groomer or insist on as a pet parent. Jump right in!
The picture that you see above is of Ashley. She is an Indie dog and is all of a wonderful 15 years old.
While dealing with a senior dog it es extremely important to be gentle and empathetic. This will ensure that the pet grooming session an absolute cakewalk for both the groomer and the dog.
Senior Dog Grooming: Health Issues
Senior dogs tend to get dirtier more often because of a very simple reason. They tend to not have the energy to groom themselves. So what you are likely to see is an inability to maintain their nails, ear and eye dirt, matting of the coat and/or skin infections/growths. There could be general fatigue. Or maybe even pain. There could be illnesses. It’s important to take this into account while planning a senior dog grooming session.
Senior Dog Grooming: How much time does it take?
A senior dog decides the grooming session time. This is the default setting. Senior dogs might have mobility issues, fatigue issues, anxiety etc. Breaks during the grooming session may be necessary. It is also important for the groomer to go with what is most comfortable for the dog. Such as if the dog prefers standing or lying down while being groomed. Dogs tend to lose muscle mass as they get older which means that for some standing might become a strain. Whereas some dogs who are anxious may not want to lie down. There is no one size that fits all. When in doubt look to the dog!
What is definitely highly recommended is that grooming sessions are short in duration. It is preferable to schedule more short grooming sessions than one long one. Pet groomers need not be rigid about what they do during a grooming session. It is okay to skip some steps to ensure the well being of the senior dog.
Why Groom A Senior Dog?
Imagine what it must feel like to be taken care of, to be made clean, gently! Going to a professional groomer who has experience with senior dogs also means less anxiety. For the dog as well as the pet parent! One of the advantages of regular grooming sessions is that an expert pet groomer will be able to spot changes in coat/hair/skin early on. If there are growths or if there is pain or if the coat has started to show marked differences in certain areas then these can be informed to the pet parent.
Senior Dog Grooming: Musts for a Pet Groomer
- Get a health history of the dog
- If you are unaware of any illness the dog has read up on it
- Be aware of vision or hearing problems
- Use a non slippary surface to ensure the dog has a grip while standing
- Allow for breaks during the grooming session
- Use gentle equipment
- Use equipment gently to ensure no injuries
- Dogs hide pain. Be hyper aware of any signs that a dog is uncomfortable
- Check skin/coat/hair for any abnormalities
- Keep the grooming session short
Grooming a senior dog is an extremely fulfilling task. You are in the moment and are mindful. You help make things easier and beautiful for a precious being. Enjoy!
Pawpad Bangalore offers dog grooming sessions catering to specific needs. Do speak with our pet groomer while making the appointment.